BOSTON, MA – Senators Edward M. Kennedy and John F. Kerry and Congresswoman Niki Tsongas announced today that the Lowell Regional Transit Authority will receive a grant of $4,770,014 from the Federal Transit Administration under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The funds will be used to purchase two replacement buses, fare box equipment, and facility surveillance cameras. Funds will also be allocated to improve customer services and replace a methane gas detection system at the bus maintenance facility.
Senator Kennedy said, “At a time when budgets are stretched to their limits, these funds could not be more critical. They’ll help keep bus facilities in Lowell up-to-date and make transportation safer and more efficient for residents.”
"Thousands of commuters throughout the Merrimack Valley rely on public transportation for everything from getting their groceries to getting to work," said Senator John Kerry. "This investment will ensure clean, safe transportation, save jobs and have a positive effect on our environment and our pocketbooks."
"The Lowell Regional Transit Authority provides outstanding transportation services which help thousands of Greater Lowell residents get to and from work, school, health appointments, and many other destinations in our community," said Congresswoman Niki Tsongas. "By generating greater gas mileage, these new hybrid diesel buses will reduce the overall operating costs of the fleet, as well as greenhouse gases, and the maintenance improvements that this grant is also enabling will further enhance services for local riders."
